Mr. Prendergast was passing on to his room, but at the foot of the
stairs Herbert stopped him again, going up the stairs with him, and
almost whispering into his ear--

"I trust, Mr. Prendergast," said he, "that things are not to go on
in this way."

"No, no," said Mr. Prendergast.

"Because it is unbearable--unbearable for my mother and for me, and
for us all. My mother thinks that some terrible thing has happened
to the property; but if so, why should I not be told?"

"Of anything that really has happened, or does happen, you will be
told."

"I don't know whether you are aware of it, Mr. Prendergast, but I am
engaged to be married. And I have been given to understand--that
is, I thought that this might take place very soon. My mother seems
to think that your coming here may--may defer it. If so, I think I
have a right to expect that something shall be told to me."

"Certainly you have a right, my dear young friend. But, Mr.
Fitzgerald, for your own sake, for all our sakes, wait patiently for
a few hours."

"I have waited patiently."

"Yes, I know it. You have behaved admirably. But I cannot speak to